A lot happened to me before my departure: I missed my original flight, I didn't have my visa on time and I had to pay hundreds of dollars to change my flight to a later date. My aunt suggested that I leave the next day, but I wanted to leave the same day my visa came. I had already missed so much so why not leave as soon as possible? I Thought I could finally board my flight, but I looked at my suitcases and they were all empty! I searched every closet and every dresser for the clothes I needed: socks, shirts, pants, rain jackets, toothbrush and toothpaste, soap, watches, bracelets and much more. Fortunately, I packed very quickly and it only took around one or two hours. I had successfully packed four bags!
I booked a late flight for that night and eventually left to go to Bangkok. Whew, what a relief that was. My flight was 28 hours long. I know that may seem pretty insane, but it actually was not too bad. I had layover time, which is time to rest at the airport before a flight. That layover time was very relaxing and kept me calm before I got on the flight. I arrived in Bangkok to find out I had missed a group meeting, a school meeting and a photoshoot for my student ID. I missed these events because of the late preparation of my visa!
I learned a very important lesson at that moment. Always be prepared! Taking the correct steps to prepare is what sets you up for good opportunities. I could have been to school on time and gone to all of the events I missed if only I had prepared the correct way. Studying abroad requires a lot of focus, so do not give any less than your best efforts!
